Jingeelah,

Shearwater came alight last week with the warmth and connection of fire and First Nations people and culture. Shearwater dedicated Week 3 to celebrating NAIDOC, following the theme Keep the Fire Burning! Guided by a strong First Nations team, we developed a sense of connection and contribution, asking everyone to consider how they can play a part in keeping the fire burning, and recognising the collective strength of working together and listening to Country. 

Mudjai, Coedie, Jahvis, Waangenga and Djuaan, with the support of the Shearwater Kinship group, brought the whole School together with smoking, fire ceremony and dances. Through the week they led classes through a range of immersive experiences incorporating storytelling, film, dance, weaving, painting and ritual. The activities ranged from reflective discussions to learning an emu dance and weaving emu nests. A lot of fun was had and all groups added something to the story.

We were honoured to have the contributions of Elders to our celebrations, with Aunty Robyn doing some beautiful weaving with Class 2, and Craig Little sharing his knowledge of original burning technique and caring for country, with Years 7, 8 and 9. A group of five Elders from Cabbage Tree Island enjoyed lunch and songs with the Kinship group, the Kindy children and others, and gratefully received gifts made by the students.  

Alongside the fire that burned all week, we shared stories, food and created a space of connection, respect and healing. By the end of the week, this space felt like home and many reflected on how we might bring more opportunities for fireside connections. 

The week flowed beautifully with offerings of support from so many through the School. Contributions arrived daily – firewood, delicious baked goods, weaving materials, songs of thanks, felted jackets for the Elders and so many smiles. 

On Friday, the whole School brought together our creations, healing and hopes as the big emu created over the week went up in flames, and we danced and sang. We hold a deep appreciation for all that was shared by Coedie, Jahvis, Mudjai, Djuaan, Dai and the Elders, and all who contributed, and we look forward to more experiences like this in the future. In the words of Jahvis: “This is the way we want to live”.

Bugalbeh,
Kat Hope